Opinion: Hucknall landmarks are an important reminder of the town's history and heritage
I recently reported damage and vandalism at both the miners’ statue near Tesco and the Jim Blagden bench and I am pleased repairs and maintenance are now being carried out.
The miners’ statue is an important reminder of Hucknall’s mining past and the people who built this town.
The Jim Blagden bench also means a lot locally.
It remembers Jim’s service to Hucknall and honours the NHS and key workers who did so much during the pandemic.
These are small parts of the town, but they matter.
They reflect Hucknall’s history, its community spirit and the pride people still have in the area.
That is why it is disappointing when they are damaged or vandalised.
I am pleased that action is now being taken, and credit should go to Ashfield Council for responding.
The bench is due to be repainted, the area will be cleaned and jet washed and the lighting issue is being dealt with by the council’s assets team, who are arranging for an electrical contractor to carry out the work.
I would also like to thank Coun Richard Darrington (Ref), whoalso raised the matter at the county council and helped cut through some of the initial red tape so the work could move forward.
There is no excuse for vandalism or anti-social behaviour against landmarks that mean something to local people.
Hucknall is a town with a proud history and strong community spirit, and we should take pride in keeping it looking its best.
Hucknall deserves better than to see landmarks that reflect our history and community spirit damaged or neglected.
There is no excuse for vandalism or anti-social behaviour, and we should all take pride in the town we call home.
Keeping places like these in good order may seem a small thing to some, but it speaks to bigger standards about respect, pride and how we look after Hucknall.